Dogs for Adoption in Wayne County, NC: 30 Dogs Looking for a Home
71 dogs and puppies are waiting for homes at 8 rescues and shelters within 50 miles of the middle of Wayne County. Here are 30 of the newest arrivals, each with photos, their story and how to reach the rescue looking after them.
Of the dogs up for adoption within 50 miles of the middle of Wayne County, 16 puppies, 14 young dogs, 26 adults and 8 seniors. The breeds you'll see most are Pit Bull Terrier, German Shepherd and Labrador Retriever, along with plenty of one-of-a-kind mixes.
Not in Wayne County? Find dogs near your zip code.
1. Rigby
A Little Honey, A Lot of Love!
Oh, bother! It looks like a little honey bear has wandered out of the Hundred Acre Wood and into our rescue! Meet Rigby!
Rigby is a 1-year-old Yellow Lab/Hound mix with floppy ears, a honey-colored coat, and a heart just as sweet! This handsome boy is a little underweight right now, but with some extra TLC, good meals, and lots of love, he'll be on his way to a happily ever after.
Rigby is neutered, up to date on everything, and has a $300 adoption fee.
All this little Pooh Bear needs is a full belly, a cozy home, and his very own Christopher Robin.
Could that be you? Apply to adopt Rigby today!
2. Tank
Edgecombe County Animal Shelter is open Mon-Fri 1:30-4:30. The adoption fee is $40 for dogs and cats. This is a mandatory spay/neuter shelter. Options will be reviewed at the time of adoption.
3. Annie
Edgecombe County Animal Shelter is open Mon-Fri 1:30-4:30. The adoption fee is $40 for dogs and cats. This is a mandatory spay/neuter shelter. Options will be reviewed at the time of adoption.
4. Nemo
COURTESY POST !!! DO NOT APPLY TO RUSTY'S PLEASE APPLY HERE: Adoption Application Form https://share.google/UBQ9UhYNIlUmPIGtI HELP US FIND NEMO HIS HAPPY ENDING! Our sweet boy Nemo is just a couple of weeks away from graduating from his SIX-WEEK BOARD AND TRAIN PROGRAM, and we have one very important thing left to accomplish. WE NEED TO FIND HIM A FOSTER OR FOREVER HOME! Nemo has spent the last several weeks working incredibly hard to become the best version of himself. He's learned obedience, built confidence, improved his social skills, and made some truly amazing progress. But there's one thing we can't teach him in training.
Read more about Nemo
What it feels like to have a home of his very own. Nemo is an incredibly intelligent, affectionate, active boy who bonds deeply with his people. Once you're his person, you're HIS person, and he will absolutely adore you. He's also got a few quirks, and we want to be completely transparent about what his perfect home looks like. Children 15 and older: Nemo does best with people who understand boundaries and can respect his personal space. No small animals: While Nemo does well with other dogs, smaller animals aren't a good fit for him. Dog friendly: With proper introductions, Nemo enjoys other dogs! He has a particularly funny fascination with black, fluffy dogs. Apparently, our handsome boy has a type! A quieter household: Nemo would thrive in a home with a predictable routine, a little peace and quiet, and people he can build a strong relationship with. An active family: Hiking, running, exploring, and outdoor adventures? Nemo would LOVE that! He's a smart, energetic boy who enjoys having things to do. Supervised outdoor time: Nemo is quite the talented fence climber! Although his recall has improved tremendously, he still needs supervision and secure handling outdoors. Continued respect for his boundaries: Nemo has made wonderful progress with meeting new people and navigating public environments. He just needs strangers to approach appropriately and give him a chance to feel comfortable. AND THE BEST PART? NEMO COMES WITH LIFETIME TRAINING SUPPORT! We're not simply handing Nemo over with a list of commands and wishing everyone good luck. His new family will receive: Lifetime refresher training sessions Help from his trainer during his transition into his new home Guidance on maintaining his obedience and continuing his progress Support to help Nemo and his new family build a wonderful relationship We have invested six weeks into helping Nemo succeed, and we're committed to making sure that success continues long after graduation. Now, here's the part that breaks our hearts. Nemo does not do well in a traditional boarding environment. He struggles emotionally, becomes withdrawn, and simply isn't the same happy, affectionate dog we see when he's able to spend time with people and participate in everyday life. We've watched him blossom throughout his training. We've seen his personality shine, his confidence grow, and his ability to navigate the world improve. The thought of him finishing all this hard work only to return to a kennel is absolutely devastating. Nemo deserves to graduate into a HOME, not back into boarding. He doesn't need a perfect family. He needs the right family. Someone patient. Someone active. Someone who appreciates a dog with a big personality, a huge heart, and a few little quirks. Someone who understands that rescue dogs aren't always perfect, but they are absolutely worth the effort. And if you're not quite ready to adopt? FOSTERING NEMO WOULD BE JUST AS INCREDIBLE! Giving him somewhere comfortable to land while we search for his forever family would mean the world to us and, more importantly, to Nemo. NEMO'S NEXT CHAPTER IS WAITING! Charlotte, NC Foster or forever home needed Graduating from his six-week training program soon Lifetime training support included Apply at https://stabrescue.com Please, please share our sweet boy. We've done everything
- No young kids
- Good with dogs
- No cats
- House-trained
5. Darby
Darby is a year old golden Great with dogs, cats and kids Professionally trained Ready to go home Statesville, NC
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
6. Peep
Courtesy Post !!! DO NOT APPLY TO RUSTY'S PLEASE APPLY HERE: Adoption Application Form https://share.google/UBQ9UhYNIlUmPIGtI LOCATION CHARLOTTE NC GIVE PEEP A CHANCE! Peep would like to know why her forever family is taking so long. She has already practiced her adorable head tilts, perfected her tiny tongue blep, and reserved a spot on your couch. What more preparation could a girl possibly need?! Peep is a sweet, silly girl who loves people but can feel nervous when meeting unfamiliar dogs. When overwhelmed, she may get a little snappy toward the other dog, so she needs patient, slow introductions that let her become comfortable at her own pace.
Read more about Peep
Once she realizes everything is okay, she settles in and is completely fine with her canine friends! Give Peep a little patience and time to feel safe, and you’ll get to watch her adorable personality come to life. Once you’re in her circle, prepare to have your heart—and possibly your favorite seat—completely stolen. Peep isn’t suited for apartment living, but she is perfectly suited for making someone wonder how they ever lived without her. Help us find the patient family willing to give this precious little Peep a chance! Please share! Apply to adopt at STABRescue.com #AdoptPeep #GivePeepAChance #AdoptDontShop #STABRescue #RescueDog #CharlotteNC
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
7. Paulie
Edgecombe County Animal Shelter is open Mon-Fri 1:30-4:30. The adoption fee is $40 for dogs and cats. This is a mandatory spay/neuter shelter. Options will be reviewed at the time of adoption.
8. Bianca
Edgecombe County Animal Shelter is open Mon-Fri 1:30-4:30. The adoption fee is $40 for dogs and cats. This is a mandatory spay/neuter shelter. Options will be reviewed at the time of adoption.
- Good with dogs
9. Duke
Edgecombe County Animal Shelter is open Mon-Fri 1:30-4:30. The adoption fee is $40 for dogs and cats. This is a mandatory spay/neuter shelter. Options will be reviewed at the time of adoption.
10. Axel
Edgecombe County Animal Shelter is open Mon-Fri 1:30-4:30. The adoption fee is $40 for dogs and cats. This is a mandatory spay/neuter shelter. Options will be reviewed at the time of adoption.
11. Ailynn
A LITTLE PIECE OF MOONLIGHT... MEET AILYNN!
Did you know the name Ailynn can mean "moon halo" or "one who belongs to the moon"? With her beautiful icy-blue eyes and snowy white coat, we couldn't think of a more fitting name for this little girl!
At just 4 months old, this adorable Husky mix has a whole universe of adventures ahead of her! Ailynn is a very shy little girl who is still learning that the world isn't such a scary place. She just needs someone willing to give her the time, patience, and love to come out of her shell and let her personality shine!
Read more about Ailynn
When it comes to making furry friends, Ailynn is dog friendly with the correct introduction. She's still just a puppy, with plenty of growing, learning, and discovering left to do!
Ailynn is spayed, up to date on vaccinations, and on heartworm prevention.
You don't have to wish upon a star to find something special! Ailynn is ready to light up someone's world. Could that someone be you?
- Good with dogs
12. Isaac
THE THEORY OF PAWFECT LOVE... MEET ISAAC NEWTON!
Forget the laws of physics, because Sir Isaac Newton is here to prove that love is the strongest force of all!
At 8 years old and just 17.8 pounds, this little gentleman may not have discovered gravity, but he's certainly got a way of drawing people in! Isaac is super sweet and does well with other dogs.
Isaac is neutered, up to date on vaccinations, and on heartworm prevention. His adoption fee is $300.
You don't have to be a genius to know that Isaac Newton deserves a loving home! Could you be the missing piece to his greatest discovery yet?
13. SnoCone
HERE'S THE SCOOP... MEET SNOCONE!
First up on the menu is Miss SnoCone, and she's one irresistible little treat!
At 10 months old and 29.2 pounds, SnoCone is a little bundle of love! This affectionate girl adores cuddles and will happily soak up all the attention you're willing to give. With a personality this lovable, she's bound to melt a few hearts!
SnoCone also appears to be dog-friendly, so she may be just as happy making four-legged friends as she is snuggling up with her favorite people!
She is spayed, up to date on vaccinations, and on heartworm prevention. Her adoption fee is $300.
Read more about SnoCone
Looking for a little extra sweetness in your life? SnoCone might just be your perfect flavor!
14. Fetty
Edgecombe County Animal Shelter is open Mon-Fri 1:30-4:30. The adoption fee is $40 for dogs and cats. This is a mandatory spay/neuter shelter. Options will be reviewed at the time of adoption.
15. George
Welcome George to the ranch !!Looking for his forever family ♥ George is a sweet Australian Shepherd 2 years old Fully vetted Good with dogs , cats & kids Fully vetted , neutered and microchipped Ready to go home !!!Fletcher, NC
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
16. Babygirl
Welcome Babygirl to the ranch !!SMALL DOG !!! 20 lb. Mini Australian Shepherd2 years old Fully vetted, spayed and microchipped Great with dogs and kids in foster with cats House, crate and leash trained Ready to go home! Statesville, NC
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
17. Amber
Edgecombe County Animal Shelter is open Mon-Fri 1:30-4:30. The adoption fee is $40 for dogs and cats. This is a mandatory spay/neuter shelter. Options will be reviewed at the time of adoption.
18. Boo
No tricks here — Boo is all treats. This 4-year-old, 26-pound Micro-Bully mix is ready to haunt your house in the best possible way. She’s playful, dog friendly, and always down for a little mischief, whether that means zoomies, playtime, or convincing you she deserves one more treat. She would do best with a dog her size or bigger, but does perfectly fine entertaining herself.
Boo is spayed, up to date on vaccines, and on heart worm prevention, so the only thing missing from her spooky season is a forever family.
Her adoption fee is $300.
Read more about Boo
If your house could use one more little ghost running around this Halloween, Boo might be the perfect addition!
- Good with dogs
19. Hicks
This bubba boy is Hicks. Hicks is a 1-year-old, 41-pound bully who is just a really sweet, friendly guy. He loves people, does well with other dogs, and so far has been happy to make friends with just about everyone he meets.
He is still young, so he has plenty of playful energy, but he also has a soft, affectionate side that makes him easy to love. We are still learning more about him as he settles in, but he has already shown us that he is a very social, easygoing dog. He is doing well with potty training and learning some general manners.
Read more about Hicks
You will probably notice the large scar on his back. Since Hicks came to us from a shelter, we do not know how he got it, and the hair there will most likely not grow back. It does not seem to bother him at all, and it is just part of what makes him unique.
He is neutered, up to date on vaccines, and on heartworm prevention. His adoption fee is $300.
Hicks is a great medium size, has a wonderful temperament, and is ready to find a family of his own.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
20. Sugar
Welcome Sugar to the ranch !!! PUPPY !!!Looking for her forever family ♥ Sugar is a sweet little boxer lab mix puppy ♥Vetted and microchipped Good with dogs and cats Ready to go home ! Charlotte, NC
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
21. Ghost
Welcome Ghost to the ranch! This sweet little boy is 3 months old!!!He's curious and gentle and ready to exploreAge appropriate vaccines and microchippedAvailable in Gastonia, NCLet's find Ghost his forever home
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
22. Morpheus
Do you need a buddy? A buddy for you? A buddy for your dog? A buddy for your older kiddo? This guy is the best at being a buddy! Morpheus is not only handsome, he's cuddly and adorable. He would love to hang out next to you on the couch, sleep with you in the bed (stairs please, if your bed is kinda high), and just be near. He loves belly rubs and snuggles and chin chucks. He rides great in the car, and he's pretty good on leash as well. He's house trained and is crate trained, but has free roam of his current foster home, along with his three foster brothers. He lives a quiet life with low key dogs, but every once in a while he'll get goofy and start rolling around on the floor like a big dork, making all kinds of happy sounds.
Read more about Morpheus
When he's displeased, he'll yodel a little, full disclosure. But it's not long-lived. He just wants to be around his people. So if you're looking for the easiest guy to have around, Morpheus is that guy. He might be a senior, but he's still got a lot of life and love to give. Adoption fee of $90 includes neuter, microchip, vaccines, deworming, heartworm testing, and heartworm/flea/tick preventionApply here: https://2pawsup.org/applications/adoption-application/
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
23. Nickel
Hi, I'm Nickel! I am an easy going, happy guy that loves adults, kids, and other dogs. I am working hard on house training, and rarely have accidents in my foster Mom's house. I sleep quietly in my crate all night, but I would love to snuggle up in your lap during the day!
A little about Nickel; he is very friendly and excited about the world around him. He rides well in the car and likes to wrestle and play with other dogs of all sizes, but he is equally as happy to settle in on the couch for a nap. As long as his people are nearby, Nickel is up for anything! (BR*/KG)
Up to date on age-appropriate vaccines and micro-chipped.
Read more about Nickel
Adoption Fee: $300.00 Spay/Neuter Fee: $175.00
- Good with dogs
24. Dime
This is Dime! She is a total rockstar and she's ready to give her ten cents to let you know why. This extremely happy puppy loves everything around her from people to other animals and most importantly play time. Even as a very young puppy you can tell she has a bright future in fetch. Now let's reiterate on the play time, yes she likes to cuddle whenever she is tired but this girl wants people to match her energy and a future of exercising and being outdoors sounds perfect for her! Are you ready to join Dime's future of good times and fun? (BR*/KG)
Up to date on age-appropriate vaccines and micro-chipped.
Adoption Fee: $300.00 Spay/Neuter Fee: $175.00
- Good with dogs
25. Edwin
Word gets around..... the Golden Bachelor is in town and he's looking for LOVE. Handsome Edwin has already lived a life of fun and happiness but he's not ready to slow down yet, he's back on the market ready for a home of furever love! A little about Edwin; he is a charming house guest and warms up to people very quickly. He also wants you to know that age is just number and his energy hasn't slowed down when it comes to play time. And boy does he love pup cup dates and taking rides in a car. So..... are YOU going to take him off the market? (*BR/KG)
Up to date on age appropriate vaccin
es, neutered and micro-chipped.
Adoption Fee: $200.00
- Good with dogs
- No cats
- House-trained
26. Dolly
Meet Dolly ❤️
Dolly is a tiny Shih-Tzu girl who has already been through far more than she ever should have. She came to Rainbow Bridge Hospice Rescue as a stray from Guilford County, flea-infested and missing much of her beautiful fur. Despite the neglect she endured, Dolly is still a sweet little girl who deserves nothing but love, patience, and kindness from here on out.
Read more about Dolly
Dolly is estimated to be about 8 years old. She is currently receiving the veterinary care she desperately needed when she arrived. One of our biggest concerns is that Dolly appears to be blind, so she will need a patient and understanding family who can help her feel safe and secure as she learns to navigate her new world.
But being blind doesn't mean Dolly doesn't have plenty of love to give. ❤️ She is a precious little soul who deserves to spend the rest of her life knowing what it feels like to be safe, cherished, and truly loved.
Because of her age and possible vision impairment, Dolly would do best in a quiet, calm home with someone who understands that senior and special-needs dogs may need a little extra time and patience. We are looking for someone who will see past her physical challenges and recognize the wonderful little dog underneath.
Dolly didn't choose to be neglected or abandoned. She didn't ask to arrive at rescue in poor condition. But she now has a chance at the happy ending she deserves.
Could you be Dolly's forever family? ❤️
Dolly is available for adoption through Rainbow Bridge Hospice Rescue. If you can't adopt but would like to help Dolly and the other medically needy senior dogs in our care, donations are always greatly appreciated.
Adoption applications: https://rainbowbridgerescue.org/applications/
Help support Dolly's medical care:
https://www.every.org/rainbow-bridge-hospice-rescue/f/dolly-needs-your-hel
Please share Dolly's story. Her forever person may be out there waiting to find her. ❤️
- Good with dogs
- Special needs
27. Lilly Rose
Welcome Lilly Rose to the ranch !!! Small dog !! Looking for her foster or forever ! Lilly Rose is ready to meet her new family!She is about 4 years old & just 40 poundsFully vetted, microchipped and spayed Good with dogs, cats and kids House, crate and leash trainedReady to go home!Statesville, NC
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
28. Clover
12 week old pupborn in rescueCalm, cuddly, and ready to nap! Charlotte, NC
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
29. Vinnie
Meet Vinnie Has had age appropriate vaccines and microcipped Statesville, NC
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
30. Leela
Meet Leela This baby girl is 9 weeks old! She's sweet and needs a home!!Has age appropriate vaccines and microchipped!!
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
Rescues and shelters near Wayne County
The rescues with the most dogs listed within 50 miles of the middle of Wayne County.
- Rusty's Rescue Ranchgarner, nc · 22 dogs
How to adopt from Rusty's Rescue Ranch
An application, a virtual home visit, a vet check and landlord check. Anyone adopting a pet whos other pets will need to do a meet and greet with all animals. Cats are $125, dogs under 6 months of age are $400 and dogs over 6 months of age are $225. an adoption contract is required as well,
- Edgecombe County Animal ShelterTarboro, NC · 18 dogs
How to adopt from Edgecombe County Animal Shelter
Adoption fee is $40 (cash or check) which includes rabies vaccination. Adopter needs license and signs adoption agreement and spay/ neuter contract There is an additional $40 deposit required for spay/neuter Surgery gets scheduled by rescue sponsoring program. When surgery is done, vet notifies rescue and the $40 deposit is returned to adopter
- Mitchell Mill Animal Hospital Rescue IncRaleigh, NC · 9 dogs
- Freedom German Shepherd RescueLa Grange , NC · 6 dogs
How to adopt from Freedom German Shepherd Rescue
All applicants must pass a vet check, phone interview and home visit in order to adopt. Once an applicant passes, they must sign an adoption contract where they agree to alter the dog by 6 months of age - if they are adopting a puppy, guarantee that the dog will receive proper vet care, food, water and exercise, and will return the dog to the rescue if they can no longer keep the dog for any reason. All dogs are microchipped prior to adoption, with Freedom GSR always remaining on the chip. The adoption fee is $250, adopters receive a 2 week trial period with the dog and if the adopter is found to be in violation of the contract, Freedom GSR will reclaim the dog. All dogs will not be adopted out until they are up to date on shots, free of heartworms and intestinal parasites and altered, if six months of age or older. If a puppy is adopted, the adoption contract stipulates that the puppy must be altered by the time s/he turns 6 months old.
- Friends of Rocky Mount AnimalsRocky Mount, NC · 6 dogs
How to adopt from Friends of Rocky Mount Animals
Application, 2 personal reference, vet reference, home visiit, our normal adoption fee is 300.00
- Rainbow Bridge Hospice Rescue incMiddlesex, NC · 4 dogs
How to adopt from Rainbow Bridge Hospice Rescue inc
We require an application filled out with 3 references, vet references and or records on all dogs living in the home. We do a home visit and all persons must be present.
- Rescue Ur Forever FriendGarner, NC · 4 dogs
How to adopt from Rescue Ur Forever Friend
Potential adopters meet animal at adoption event or arrangement meeting, Adoption application completed, information verified - vet reference/current animals up to date, home ownership or rental, adoption approved or denied, Adoption fee collected - $150 for dogs, $100 for cats, $100 spay/neuter fee for puppies too young to be altered. Follow-up after adoption at 2 weeks, 1 month, 2 months, 6 months and year. More frequent for unaltered pups.
- Two Paws Up NC Shelter RescueRaleigh, NC · 2 dogs
How to adopt from Two Paws Up NC Shelter Rescue
Note: All animals have been or will be spayed or neutered prior to adoption. Cats & Kittens Cats and kittens are FeLV/FIV negative (unless otherwise stated), dewormed, treated for fleas and ticks, and are up-to-date on all age-appropriate vaccinations. Dogs & Puppies Dogs and puppies are HW negative, on HW preventative (if 10 weeks of age or older), dewormed, treated for fleas and ticks, and are up-to-date on all age-appropriate vaccinations. Adoption Fees $95 Cats and Kittens $120 Dogs and Puppies $65 Dogs and Cats (if altered prior to entering our program) Adoption Process 1. Fill out our online adoption application. Once we have received your application, we will check the necessary references. If additional information is required, we will contact you. 2. Once approved, arrange a time to meet the animal and foster family. Any questions you may have can be answered at this time. 3. If you decide to move forward with the adoption, you will set up a time to receive your new family member for the seven-day adoption trial period. You will be required to sign an adoption contract and pay the adoption fee at this time. 4. If for any reason during this one-week trial period you feel that the animal is not a perfect match for your family, you can return the animal to 2PawsUp for a full refund. 5. After the one-week trial period is over, the animal is yours to love and cherish forever. 6. If for any reason you are unable to keep the animal, you must return the animal to 2PawsUp. La
Cities and towns in Wayne County
- Goldsboro 71
- Mount Olive 76
- Elroy 60
- Mar-Mac 222
- Brogden 53
- Fremont 156
- Walnut Creek 60
- Pikeville 156
- Seven Springs 17
Adopting a dog in Wayne County
Most rescues ask you to fill in an application, meet the dog, and pay an adoption fee that usually covers spaying or neutering, vaccinations and a microchip. Many are foster-based, so you'll often meet your dog in a volunteer's home rather than a shelter.
Senior dogs are often the calmest companions and the slowest to find homes. If you'd like a settled, affectionate dog, ask the rescues about their older residents.
Puppies go quickly, so if you've fallen for one, contact the rescue soon. Ask how big they're expected to grow, and plan for plenty of house-training and training in the first few months.
Questions about adopting a dog in Wayne County
How many dogs are up for adoption in Wayne County?
As of November 4, 2026, 71 dogs and puppies are listed for adoption within 50 miles of the middle of Wayne County, North Carolina, by 8 rescues and shelters. The list is updated every day.
Where can I adopt a dog in Wayne County?
The rescues with the most dogs near Wayne County right now are Rusty's Rescue Ranch (garner, nc), Edgecombe County Animal Shelter (Tarboro, NC) and Mitchell Mill Animal Hospital Rescue Inc (Raleigh, NC). Each dog above has the rescue's phone number and website.
Are there puppies for adoption in Wayne County?
Yes. 16 puppys are up for adoption within 50 miles of the middle of Wayne County.
How do I adopt a dog in Wayne County?
Pick a dog and contact the rescue or shelter looking after them. Most ask you to fill in an application, meet the dog, and pay an adoption fee that usually covers spaying or neutering, vaccinations and a microchip.
Listings are updated daily. Rescues are responsible for their own listings; a dog may have been adopted since this page was updated.
